President Bola Tinubu on Thursday administered the oath of office to former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa (rtd), as the new Minister of Defence.
The brief ceremony took place at the State House, Abuja, a day after the Senate confirmed his nomination following a five-hour screening session.
General Musa’s appointment follows the resignation of Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar on Monday, December 1, 2025. His nomination was announced the following day and transmitted to the Senate, where it received expedited screening and confirmation.
In a statement released by Tinubu’s spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, the president described Musa as one who “championed inter-service security collaboration” while he was Chief of Defence Staff.
“With his swearing-in, the new Defence Minister is expected to immediately assume duties as the Tinubu administration seeks to consolidate recent security gains and fast-track reforms aimed at achieving lasting peace and stability nationwide,” Onanuga stated.
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The statement added that the swearing-in ceremony was attended by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, Chairman, Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, Sen. Adeniyi Adegbonmire, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.
Also in attendance were the spouse of the new Minister, Mrs Lilian Oghogho Musa; Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede; Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Matthew Hassan Kukah; and Justice Kumai Bayang Akaahs (rtd).
During the screening of the minister on Wednesday, senators questioned the retired General over recent security lapses, including the withdrawal of troops from Government Comprehensive Girls Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State, shortly before the abduction of schoolgirls on November 17.
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General Musa assured lawmakers that he would open a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the withdrawal as soon as he assumed office.
The new Defence Minister also pledged to probe the killing of Brigade Commander, Brig-Gen. Musa Uba, in Borno State, as well as other attacks on senior military officers in recent months.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
